NetSniff.K

It allows to gain remote access to the affected computer.
It searches for and steals passwords saved for certain Windows services.
It terminates processes belonging to security tools, leaving the computer vulnerable to other malware attacks.
It uses stealth techniques to avoid being detected by the user.
It does not spread automatically using its own means.

Affected platforms:

Windows 2003/XP/2000/NT/ME/98/95

First detected on:

Sept. 5, 2008

Detection updated on:

Sept. 5, 2008

Statistics

No

Proactive protection:

Yes, using TruPrevent Technologies

Brief Description

NetSniff.K is a backdoor that allows hackers to gain remote access to the affected computer in order to carry out actions that compromise user confidentiality and impede the tasks performed on the computer.

It captures certain information entered or saved by the user, with the corresponding threat to privacy:
passwords saved by certain Windows services.

It reduces the security level of the computer:
it terminates processes belonging to security tools, such as antivirus programs and firewalls, leaving the computer defenseless against attacks from other malware.

It uses stealth techniques to avoid being detected by the user:

It deletes the original file from which it was run once it is installed on the computer.

It modifies system permissions in order to hide itself.

NetSniff.K does not spread automatically using its own means. It needs an attacking user's intervention in order to reach the affected computer. The means of transmission used include, among others, floppy disks, CD-ROMs, email messages with attached files, Internet downloads, FTP, IRC channels, peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing networks, etc.